Yellow Branch Waterfall is a stunning 50-foot cascade nestled in the Sumter National Forest of South Carolina. Located near the town of Walhalla, this picturesque waterfall is accessible via a moderate 3-mile round trip hike. The trail meanders through hardwood forests, crosses several streams, and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Yellow Branch Waterfall is particularly impressive after rainfall, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking a serene outdoor experience in the Upstate region.
Where is Yellow Branch Waterfall Located?
Yellow Branch Waterfall is situated in the Andrew Pickens Ranger District of Sumter National Forest, near Walhalla, South Carolina. The waterfall can be reached by following these directions:
- From Walhalla, drive west on SC 28 for approximately 6.8 miles.
- Turn left into the Yellow Branch Picnic Ground.
- The picnic area is open year-round from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
GPS coordinates for the trailhead:
– Latitude: 34.79887483552744
– Longitude: -83.12773239227248
How Long is the Hike to Yellow Branch Waterfall?
The hike to Yellow Branch Waterfall is a moderate 3-mile round trip journey. Here are the key details:
- Total distance: 1.5 miles one way (3 miles round trip)
- Trail breakdown:
- 0.2 miles on Yellow Branch Nature Trail
- 1.3 miles on Yellow Branch Falls Trail
- Estimated hiking time: 1 hour each way (2 hours round trip)
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
What Should Hikers Expect on the Trail?
The Yellow Branch Waterfall trail offers a diverse and scenic hiking experience:
- Terrain: Moderate with some challenging sections
- Surroundings: Groves of hardwood trees and multiple stream crossings
- Views: Scenic vistas of the Walhalla area (especially in winter)
- Caution areas:
- Trail skirts deep ravines
- Can be slippery during wet conditions
- Footwear: Sturdy shoes recommended
When is the Best Time to Visit Yellow Branch Waterfall?
To make the most of your visit to Yellow Branch Waterfall, consider the following factors:
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Water flow | After periods of rain for maximum impact |
| Seasonal views | Winter for expanded vistas when trees are bare |
| Photography | Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting |
| Avoid | Dry periods when the falls may be reduced to a trickle |
What Photography Tips Can Enhance Waterfall Shots?
Capture the beauty of Yellow Branch Waterfall with these photography tips:
- Camera settings:
- Low ISO (100-400)
- Wide-angle lens
- Slow shutter speed for silky water effect
- Equipment:
- Tripod for stability
- Polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors
- Composition:
- Shoot from various angles (base, sides, distance)
- Include surrounding landscape for context
- Timing:
- Early morning or late afternoon for soft, golden light
- Avoid harsh midday sun
How Accessible is Yellow Branch Waterfall?
Yellow Branch Waterfall is relatively accessible, but there are some considerations:
- Parking: Available at Yellow Branch Picnic Ground (no specific capacity mentioned)
- Cost: Free parking and trail access
- Trail conditions:
- Moderate difficulty
- Can be slippery when wet
- Skirts deep ravines in some areas
- Accessibility issues: Not suitable for those with mobility limitations
- Preparation:
- Wear sturdy shoes
- Bring water and snacks
- Check weather conditions before hiking
What Makes Yellow Branch Waterfall Unique?
Yellow Branch Waterfall stands out for several reasons:
- Height: Impressive 50-foot vertical drop
- Multiple cascades: Creates a visually striking effect
- Natural setting: Surrounded by lush Sumter National Forest
- Seasonal changes:
- Powerful flow after rain
- Winter views of surrounding landscape
- Photography opportunities: Varied compositions and lighting conditions
- Moderate hike: Accessible to many, yet not overcrowded
How Can Visitors Prepare for a Trip to Yellow Branch Waterfall?
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Yellow Branch Waterfall, follow these preparation tips:
- Check weather forecast and recent rainfall
- Wear appropriate footwear (sturdy hiking shoes)
- Bring essentials:
- Water
- Snacks
- First aid kit
- Camera and tripod (if desired)
- Allow sufficient time (at least 2-3 hours for the round trip)
- Inform someone of your hiking plans
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment
Yellow Branch Waterfall offers a rewarding experience for those willing to embark on a moderate hike through the beautiful Sumter National Forest. With its impressive 50-foot cascade and serene surroundings, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers in South Carolina’s Upstate region.
References:
1. Yellow Branch Falls | N2Backpacking
2. Yellow Branch Falls – SCTrails
3. Yellow Branch Falls | Upcountry South Carolina